Wails
Claim this toolBuild cross-platform desktop applications with web technologies and Go.
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Tracked since2026
0 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free, no paid tier
Biggest pro
Combines Go's performance with web UI flexibility
TL;DR - Wails
- Build cross-platform desktop apps with Go and web technologies.
- Leverages native UI elements for a better user experience.
- Provides a CLI for quick project generation, building, and packaging.
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
What is Wails?
Wails is a framework that allows developers to build desktop applications using a combination of Go for the backend and web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) for the frontend. It aims to provide a way to create lightweight, performant applications that leverage the power of Go while offering the flexibility and familiarity of web development for the user interface.
This tool is ideal for developers who are proficient in Go and web technologies and want to create native-looking desktop applications without the overhead of Electron. It focuses on delivering a seamless development experience by integrating familiar web development workflows with a powerful Go backend, enabling the creation of feature-rich applications with native UI elements.
Key benefits include the ability to build comprehensive applications with native UI components, utilize existing web development knowledge, and quickly generate, build, and package projects using its command-line interface.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Combines Go's performance with web UI flexibility
- Creates applications with native UI elements
- Leverages existing web development skills
- Fast project setup and deployment with CLI
Key Features
Build comprehensive cross-platform applicationsUtilize native UI elements (menus, dialogs)Use familiar web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)Backend powered by GoWails CLI for project generation, building, and packaging
Pricing
Free
Wails is completely free to use with no hidden costs.
Reviews
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Wails FAQ
How does Wails enable the creation of desktop applications?
Wails allows developers to build desktop applications by combining a Go backend with web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for the frontend. This approach leverages Go's performance while providing the flexibility of web development for the user interface.
Which teams would benefit most from using Wails?
Teams proficient in Go and web technologies would find Wails most beneficial, especially when aiming to create native-looking desktop applications. It's designed for developers who want to build feature-rich applications with native UI elements efficiently.
How does Wails compare to Electron for desktop application development?
Wails aims to provide a way to create lightweight, performant applications without the overhead associated with Electron. It achieves this by using Go for the backend, offering a different approach to leveraging web technologies for the user interface.
Can Wails applications include native UI elements?
Yes, Wails enables the creation of applications that incorporate native UI components. This allows developers to build comprehensive applications that feel integrated with the operating system.
How is Wails priced?
Wails is free to use, meaning there is no paid plan required to utilize its features for developing desktop applications.
What kind of applications can be built using Wails?
Wails is suitable for building a variety of desktop applications, particularly those that benefit from a powerful Go backend and a flexible web-based user interface. It is categorized under Developer Tools and UI/UX Design, indicating its utility in creating robust software.
Source: wails.io